Bees and Irises

Common Carder Bee

There are lots of bees in the garden this year. I don't know their names and find it difficult to learn. I do know I have buff tailed bumble bees, and common carder bees and probably more but I can't identify them. 

Buff tailed bumble bee

Iris are named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow. I started growing them about three years ago and they like my garden, are easy to grow, come in a wide range of colours and can be grown most of the summer so I'm gradually getting more. In the small pond I have Iris laevigata Blue, which I have already had to divide once and needs it again. It is supposed to flower in July but is already in full flower and will be over by the time it is supposed to start.  

Irises in the pond, attracting lots of insects and the pond is full of frogs

My other irises are sibirica Deep Blue. I have just acquired this interest in irises and have not got any bearded ones yet. They are the really showy ones. But when we at last get some rain, I may get more. 

Irises in the garden